Periodic table
Rows - Elements in the same period have the same number of atomic orbitals. e.g Every element in the first period has one orbital for its electrons.
Groups - Groups are arranged in columns from top to bottom. Elements in the same group have the same number of electrons in the outer shell. e.g Every element in the first column has one electron in their outer orbital.
Metals - Approx 75% of all elements are metals. They are usually solid at room temperature (except mercury, liquid).
Good conductors of electricity and heat e.g silver (AG) and copper (CU) are two of the best conductors.
Metals are very reactive and form compounds with other elements easily.
Metals react with water to produce bases (hydroxides, OH-) and with acids to produce salts. Sodium Chloride (NaCl) when dissolved in water breaks apart sodium (Na+) and chlorine (Cl-) illustrating metals usually produce positive Ions.
Non-metals - These are usually found on the right of the table. They are usually brittle and are poor conductors of both heat and electricity. Then tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions.
Metalloids - These have properties that are a cross between metals and non-metals. They only partially conduct electricity. Boron, Silicon, Germanium and arsenic are examples.
